Ciprofloxacin-Gold Nanoparticles Loaded Polymeric Membrane as a Novel Antibacterial Wound Dressing against Diabetic Foot Ulcer Infection

Abstract

Nano-based wound dressings, with improved features such as controlled release of therapeutic drug and increased antibacterial activity, play a significant role in supporting efficient and fast wound healing. This research describes a unique method for creating a polymeric wound dressing material to address the problems of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) infection. The research focuses on introducing ciprofloxacin-loaded gold nanoparticles (CIP-AuNPs) into the dressing material using gum tragacanth (GT) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Ultraviolet-Visible spectrophotometry (UV), Fourier transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Contact Angle Measurement, and Mechanical Test were used to characterize the fabricated membranes Biocompatibility, Drug Release Efficiency, and Antibacterial Efficacy against E. coli were all investigated. In Vitro results showed the effective synthesis of CIP-AuNPs as well as the improved mechanical characteristics of the membranes. The CIP-loaded membrane demonstrated low cytotoxicity and prolonged ciprofloxacin release. The antibacterial activity of the CIP-loaded membrane was substantial. In vivo testing on rat model showed the valuable and efficient results of CIP-loaded membrane on wound healing and potential for the clinical trials. This research suggests a viable wound dressing material for the treatment of DFUs.